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Modern man Quote by W.H. Auden

“And had everything necessary to the Modern Man, A phonograph, a radio, a car and a frigidaire. Our researchers into Public Opinion are content That he held the proper opinions for the time of year; When there was peace, he was for peace: when there was war, he went” quote by W.H. Auden
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““And had everything necessary to the Modern Man, A phonograph, a radio, a car and a frigidaire. Our researchers into Public Opinion are content That he held the proper opinions for the time of year; When there was peace, he was for peace: when there was war, he went””

W.H. Auden

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Unknown Citizen” by W.H. Auden, 1939

The modern individual is surrounded by comforts yet measured only by conformity to prevailing opinions, shifting with peace or war.

In simple terms: Modern comforts mask conformity to changing public opinion.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and question shifting opinions.

Themes

conformity public opinion modernity

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • consumer culture
  • political discourse
  • personal identity

Key Concepts

social critique media influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you assess your own opinions?
  • What influences your stance during conflict?
A Different Perspective

Comfort can blind critical thinking.

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